Anxiety is a normal part of life. It’s a feeling that everyone experiences occasionally. But when anxiety interferes with daily activities, it becomes a concern. Here are six signs that anxiety might be affecting someone’s life.
1. Constant Worrying
One of the most common signs of anxiety is constant worry. This worry is often about everyday things that most people wouldn’t think twice about. For instance, someone with anxiety might stress over the safety of their loved ones or their own health, even when there’s no real reason to be concerned.
What to Do: If you find yourself constantly worrying, try to set aside a specific time each day to think about/talk out your worries, either alone or with a loved one. This practice can help keep the worry from taking over your entire day. We call this "worry time." Whenever a worry pops into your mind, tell yourself I can worry about this during my worry time and redirect yourself back to what you were doing before.
2. Restlessness
Restlessness is another common sign of anxiety. You might feel like you can’t sit still, or that you’re always on edge. This feeling can make it hard to relax, even in comfortable and safe settings.
What to Do: Engage in physical activities to get yourself moving and out of your head. These activities can help release built-up tension and stop your thoughts from spiraling. Deep breathing and guided meditation can also be beneficial.
3. Trouble Sleeping
Anxiety often goes hand-in-hand with sleep problems. People with anxiety might have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. They might wake up in the middle of the night with racing thoughts or feel like they never get a restful night’s sleep. Lack of sleep can worsen anxiety, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.
What to Do: Establish a bedtime routine that includes calming activities. Avoid caffeine and electronics before bed, as these can make it harder to sleep. If sleep problems persist, consider speaking to a healthcare professional for guidance.
4. Physical Symptoms
Anxiety isn’t just in your head; it can affect your body, too. Common physical symptoms of anxiety include headaches, muscle tension, stomachaches, and a fast heartbeat. Some people might feel short of breath or experience dizziness. These symptoms can come on suddenly and might be mistaken for other medical conditions.
What to Do: Pay attention to your body’s signals. Practice relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or deep breathing exercises, to help reduce physical symptoms. If physical symptoms are frequent or severe, consult with a doctor to rule out other health issues and discuss anxiety management options like medication.
5. Avoiding Social Situations
People with anxiety often avoid social situations. They might feel nervous about being judged, embarrassed, or criticized. This can lead them to avoid gatherings, meetings, or even everyday activities like going to the grocery store. While avoiding these situations might provide temporary relief, it can lead to isolation and make anxiety worse over time.
What to Do: Start with small steps. If large gatherings are overwhelming, try meeting one or two friends in a comfortable setting. Gradually increase your exposure to social situations. Consider seeking support from a therapist who can provide strategies for managing social anxiety.
6. Irritability
Irritability is a lesser-known sign of anxiety but is quite common. When someone feels anxious, they might become easily frustrated or annoyed, even over small things. This irritability can affect relationships and lead to misunderstandings with friends, family, or coworkers.
What to Do: If you notice increased irritability, take a moment to pause before reacting. Practicing deep breathing or stepping away from the situation briefly can help. Discussing these triggers with a mental health professional can offer additional support.
Recognizing When to Seek Help
Anxiety can have a significant impact on daily life, but it’s important to remember that help is available. If these signs of anxiety are interfering with your day-to-day life, contact our office for help! We can assist you as you learn how to better manage your anxiety symptoms.
Disclaimer: Our content is on and related to the topic of mental health. The content is general information that may or may not apply to you. The content is not a substitute for professional services. This website does not contain professional advice, nor is any professional-client relationship established with you through your use of this website.
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